La Marcus Aldridge guarded by Steven Adams (Photo : Ronald Cortes | Getty Images Sport)
The NBA trade rumors continue as experts weigh in on predictions for the 2016-17 season.
One of the surprise predictions is LaMarcus Aldridge getting involved in trade talks. This was predicted by no less than America's top sportswriter Zach Lowe of ESPN. While he did take a cautious approach, he acknowledges that it's a real possibility.
"The Spurs will see if this team outperforms expectations. If it doesn't, theyshould take calls on Aldridge. He's really good, and there are a lot of impatient owners chasing immediate gratification. If opportunism meets desperation, the Spurs could fleece some rival and restock with a bundle of assets that better line up with Leonard's timetable," Lowe reasoned.
Lowe also mentioned possible destinations that included the LA Lakers, the other Texas teams (Dallas and Houston) probably because Aldridge is a Texas native and an intriguing prospect in the Oklahoma City Thunder.
The Thunder lost their franchise player in Kevin Durant but they still have Russell Westbrook as their star. Acquiring another star player could easily bring them back to contender status.
However, as Lowe stated, there are a lot of conditions for the Spurs to even consider trading Aldridge. They just acquired Pau Gasol who's on the twilight of his career and they only signed him for two years. That was definitely a "win-now" move (as the Spurs are always in "win now" mode).
Trading Aldridge would mean that the Spurs are abandoning that path and the goal would be to build a younger team around Kawhi Leonard.
That's a longshot, but if they do consider trading Aldridge, presumably to the Thunder, what could they offer in return.
Aldridge is a star player who can deliver a consistent double-double production, so the Thunder would need to assemble a good package. A definite starting point would be Steven Adams. The Thunder has two centers (the other one being Enes Kanter) and they lost their starting power forward (Serge Ibaka).
Adams could be a fit with the Spurs system because he is also a good passer as shown in last season's playoffs. Victor Oladipo is an athletic, tenacious defender and Coach Pop could develop him if he improves his shooting. The Spurs could also consider rookie Domantas Sabonis as he is the type of international player the Spurs would develop.
